Top Car Cleaning Hacks Using Household Items

Exterior Cleaning Hacks Using Household Items

• Baking Soda and Soapy Water for Grime and Rust

This is one of the best eco-friendly car cleaning options. Mix baking soda and a mild, soapy water to create a natural cleanser. It can be used to gently scrub away grime, bird droppings, and light rust without damaging the car’s paint. Rinse it thoroughly to restore a cleaner and brighter car surface.

• Shampoo for Body Wash

A diluted solution of hair shampoo (preferably baby shampoo) works as an excellent car wash liquid. It can lift dirt and dust effectively, creating a streak-free shine. Use only a soft microfiber cloth for preventing any scratches while washing.

• Toothpaste for Foggy Headlights

A toothpaste with mild abrasives is the best household item to polish foggy headlights and headlights with yellow stains. To clean, apply the toothpaste on the headlights and rub it gently in circular motions before rinsing. It will restore the brightness, improving nighttime visibility.

• Vinegar-Water Mix for Windows

Another excellent DIY car cleaning hack is using a vinegar-water mix as a glass cleaner. Mix equal portions of both vinegar and water to create a mild solution, then spray it on the car’s windows. Wipe using a microfiber cloth for streak-free windows. It will remove all stubborn water stains, fingerprints, etc., effectively.
 

Interior Surface Cleaning Hacks

• Cleaning Slime to Remove Dirt and Dust

Homemade slime made from glue and borax can easily lift dirt from air vents, gear areas, and tight spaces. Gently press it onto the desired area, then peel away to capture dust without scratching or damaging delicate car interiors. 

• Makeup Brush to Dust Off any Dirt Particles

If you want a simpler interior car cleaning hack, then use a clean makeup brush for quick dusting. It can help you remove dust from dashboards, vents, and buttons. Since it’s a brush, it reaches crevices better than clothes. 

• Vacuum with Brush Attachment for Tight Areas

Use a household vacuum with a brush attachment to clean crumbs, pet hairs, and dust from carpets and seats.
 

Fabric and Upholstery Cleaning Hacks

• Baking Soda for Odour Absorption

One of the simplest DIY car cleaning hacks is sprinkling baking soda over car seats and carpets to neutralise odour. Let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it. This hack can remove smells from food, pets, or mustiness without masking them. 

• Cornstarch for Grease Stains

Cornstarch is known for absorbing grease and oil stains effectively. Hence, you can sprinkle it over grease stains and leave for a few hours before vacuuming. It will draw oily residue, keeping fabric surfaces stain-free and fresh.

• Ice Cubes for Gum Removal

If a gum sticks to your car’s upholstery, then rub an ice cube until it hardens. Once it solidifies, gently scrape it off with a blunt tool. This hack does minimal to no fabric damage while removing sticky messes. 

• Vinegar-Water Spray for General Stains

You can blend equal parts of vinegar and water to remove general stains. Spray it lightly on fabric stains and pat using a clean cloth. This natural interior car cleaning hack can effectively remove coffee, juice, and dirt stains.

• Hydrogen Peroxide for Grass Stains

Hydrogen peroxide is known to eliminate stubborn green grass stains on fabric seats and carpets. You can dab this hydrogen peroxide solution on the affected area and let it sit briefly. Then pat it using a clean cloth to remove the stain without leaving any chemical residue.
 

Air Freshening and Detailing Tips

• Clothespin Infused with Essential Oils

Homemade car cleaning solutions don’t have to be complicated. Take this hack, for example. You can add a few drops of your favourite essential oils to a wooden clothespin and clip it to the air vent. As air flows, the scent disperses, giving a pleasant fragrance throughout the car. 

• Dryer Sheets to Freshen the Car

Place dryer sheets under car seats or in storage compartments as they continuously release a fresh scent while absorbing unwanted odours. 

• Water-Peroxide Mix for Fresh Air

Mix water with a small amount of hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. Spray it lightly on carpets, air vents, and seats to neutralise any odour. 
 

Impact of Cleanliness on Car Insurance

Maintaining a clean and well-kept car reflects responsible ownership, which may benefit you during insurance assessments. Insurers may place well-maintained cars under ‘lower risk’ category, leading to reasonable premiums. 

While some insurers may grant lower premiums owing to the car’s cleanliness, it isn’t guaranteed. A clean car will also support higher resale value, making car cleaning a must for every vehicle owner.
 

Conclusion

Car cleaning should be non-negotiable for every car owner. Besides maintaining the car’s aesthetic appeal, frequent cleaning makes the car ideal for safer and joyous driving experiences. You can use any or all of the best car cleaning hacks shared in this blog to maintain your car’s cleanliness.

You can further protect your car by insuring it with the best car insurance. Those looking for the best coverage, affordable premiums, and a wide range of add-ons can explore Shriram car insurance.
 

FAQs

1. What household item(s) can I use to clean my car?

You can use multiple household items to clean your car, such as toothpaste, shampoo, clothespins, vinegar, etc.
 

2. Is vinegar safe for car surfaces?

Yes, diluted vinegar is safe for car surfaces.
 

3. How do I remove odours from my car naturally?

You can sprinkle any baking soda on car seats and carpets or attach a clothespin sprayed with essential oils on the car’s air vent.
 

4. Can toothpaste really clean headlights?

Yes, toothpastes containing mild abrasives polish away fog and yellow staining from headlights. However, ensure you gently scrub it to restore clarity.
 

5. Are these methods safe for all car interiors?

Most car cleaning hacks shared in this blog are safe. If you’re unsure, then you can get the car professionally cleaned by experts.